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Abstract
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The automobile has provided the American population with a wide latitude for individual mobility. It has become the most distinctive feature of modern American life. Yet, this machine propelled form of personal mobility has produced its undesirable effects as well as advantages.
The automobile accident has emerged as the most serious menace to the user of the highway system. The use of early automobiles was restricted by mechanical reliability, road conditions, or personal comfort. These limitations no longer exist. The motorist is free to travel almost at will and has shown his inclination to do so. The number of automobiles has increased at an astonishing rate, and travel per motor vehicle continues to rise, all of which adds to the confusion, traffic delays, and accidents resulting from the greater exposure of one vehicle to another.
The earliest theories on accident reduction or prevention were often very narrow in approach. Some early diagnostic opinions held that single corrective measures fully applied such as the drastic curtailment of speed or the complete control of intoxicated drivers, would be the immediate solution to our accident problems. More recent accident study and research has established the fact that accidents or not the result of a single cause, but are occasioned by two or more contributing circumstances.
Language: en |